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10 Things You Didn't Know About James Brown

James Brown would have turned 79 today. Even though he’s been gone for nearly six years—the Godfather of Soul died on Christmas in 2006—Complex couldn’t help but big up Mr. Dynamite on his birthday.

In addition to changing the face of popular music and blessing hip-hop with countless jams to sample, JB’s given the world some unbelievable memories. He stopped a riot, inspired the King of Pop, and helped Jay-Z and Kanye West make Watch the Throne. So read on to find out 10 things you don’t know about Soul Brother Number One.